Patient care assistants are usually required to have taken classes such as anatomy and physiology, infection control, medical terminology and CPR. You may find training programs at local community colleges, technical schools, nursing homes or hospitals. Such courses provide students with both classroom lectures and hands-on hours at hospitals or nursing homes to gain real-world experience. Patient care assistants with a training background are able to successfully carry out nursing duties, as they are properly educated in providing basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses. Program length will vary by school and program.
Though not always required to get a job as a patient care assistant, you may want to become a certified nurse aide. The coursework is generally the same as a patient care assistant, and upon taking your state's nurse aide exam, you'll be certified in providing basic patient care. Depending on the state you live in, your test may be comprised of a written section and/or skill-based evaluation. If you're working as a patient care assistant to acquire experience to become a registered nurse or physician assistant, certification is helpful: It proves you know patient care, safety measurements and communication skills.
Patient care assistants are expected to be friendly, helpful and caring to patients and their families, as well as co-workers. They should be able to manage stress well and juggle several tasks at once. Patient care assistants should also be able to keep information private as to not violate any patient privacy laws. Patient care assistants must be in good physical and mental health, flexible with lecture and clinical hours, and willing to work with people who have contagious diseases.